Nakhon Ratchasima: There is a warning that 'swine flu' or 'raw pig fever' has returned to spread again, especially in four provinces in the lower northeastern region, where 89 patients have been found, with five deaths. Dr. Thaweechai Visanuyothin, Director of Disease Control Office 9, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, stated that the disease is transmitted by pigs. It is caused by the bacteria "Streptococcus suis" present in the respiratory tract of pigs and the blood of sick pigs.
According to Thai News Agency, there are two ways to contract the disease: consuming raw or undercooked pork and pork blood, and contact with infected pigs, including pork offal, and blood. The germs enter through wounds, scratches on the body, or through the mucous membranes of the eyes. About 1-14 days after contracting the virus, patients will develop symptoms that include a high fever, severe headache, dizziness to the point of losing balance, vomiting, and a stiff neck.
Currently, 'swine flu' or 'raw pig fever' is spreading in four provinces of lower Isan from January 1 to June 19, 2025. There are 89 patients and five deaths. Nakhon Ratchasima Province has the most patients, with 47 patients and three deaths. Chaiyaphum Province is next with 17 patients, followed by Surin Province with 13 patients, and Buriram Province with 12 patients and two deaths. The age group with the highest number of patients is 65 years old and above.
Preventive measures include eating only cooked pork or pork blood, which must be cooked at a temperature of at least 60-70 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes. For grilled food enthusiasts, it is advised to use separate utensils for raw and cooked pork, adhering to the principle of 'cooked, hot, clean'. Furthermore, raw pork should not be eaten together with alcohol consumption, and pork should be sourced from reliable, standardized suppliers, ensuring it has no fishy smell and is not dark in color.
Direct contact with raw pork and blood should be avoided, especially by pig farmers, slaughterhouse workers, pork butchers, livestock breeders, and veterinarians. If there is a wound, it must be covered tightly, and hands must be washed after touching pigs every time. Individuals experiencing high fever, headache, and with a history of risk are advised to seek medical attention immediately.